Hello, my name is Deme, and I have a goal: I want to be a conscientious consumer.
This blog is a tool to help me explore socially responsible
and environmentally sustainable food, clothing and other products.
As any endeavor necessitating behavioral changes, this goal
is intimidating. My initial fears are fueled by anticipated threats to the comfort
and pleasures of my current lifestyle. Superficial barriers come up: Researching how to shop and eat responsibly
will take too much time. The experts are always changing their minds about what
is “good” and “bad” to consume. I can’t afford to buy organic and free-trade—I’m
an unemployed social worker. That’s a luxury only rich people can afford…
Right now these arguments are based on all-or-nothing
thinking and assumptions about the cost and value of particular products and
services.
To address these fears and concerns, I am beginning with
small steps. Rome was not built in a day!
First Steps:
·
In the next three weeks, I will only frequent restaurants that use local or organic food
products.
·
In the next two weeks, I will begin buying local or fair-trade products (at least 25% of my groceries).
·
In the next two weeks, I will research what “fair-trade” means and identify five companies recognized for
their morally responsible business models.
Wish me well!
